Sir John Vanbrugh spotted in Oxfordshire for palace stunt

‘Sir John Vanbrugh’, the English Baroque architect behind Blenheim Palace, was recently spotted navigating the streets of Woodstock – crossing at traffic lights, carrying shopping, and pausing for a coffee.

The surprise appearance marked the extension of Blenheim Palace’s Blueprints of Power exhibition, which explores the life and legacy of Sir John Vanbrugh, the ‘rockstar of the English Baroque.’

The exhibition has now been extended until May 31, 2026.

A spokesman said: “Visitors will now have until May 31, 2026, to explore the interactive exhibition, which brings Vanbrugh’s architectural brilliance to life.”

The display traces Mr Vanbrugh’s journey from playwright to architect and delves into his partnership with Sarah Churchill, the first Duchess of Marlborough.

Each room in Britain’s Greatest Palace pays homage to Sir John Vanbrugh and his legacy as an architect, playwright, soldier, spy, courtier and diplomat.

Sir John Vanbrugh’s walkabout marks the extension of the current Blueprints of Power exhibition, celebrating the extraordinary life of the architect behind the UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Entry to the Blueprints of Power exhibition is included with a valid day ticket or Pass to Britain’s Greatest Palace.

More information on the exhibition and palace, and to book tickets, is available on the Blenheim Palace website.